Interrogation of an object for dimensional and topographical information

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are systems, methods, devices, and apparatus to interrogate a clothed individual with electromagnetic radiation to determine one or more body measurements at least partially covered by the individual&#39;s clothing. The invention further includes techniques to interrogate an object with electromagnetic radiation in the millimeter and/or microwave range to provide a volumetric representation of the object. This representation can be used to display images and/or determine dimensional information concerning the object.

GOVERNMENT RIGHTS

[0001] This invention was made with Government support under ContractNumber DE-AC0676RLO1830 awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy. TheGovernment has certain rights in the invention.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates to interrogation of an object withelectromagnetic radiation, and more particularly, but not exclusivelyrelates to determining dimensional and topographical information about aperson's body.

[0003] Schemes from the common tape measure to visible light laserscanning have been employed to obtain measurements of a person's body.Unfortunately, these schemes often require a significant degree ofmechanical intervention or preparation, such as the placement of ameasuring device or marker on the person and/or removal of the person'sclothing. Moreover, it is typically desirable to nonintrusivelyinterrogate an object for dimensional information with less objecthandling, reduced interrogation time, and/or greater resolution relativeto existing schemes. Another goal that is sometimes related to objectmensuration is the desire to determine the topography of an object'ssurface. Thus, there is a demand for further contributions in this areaof technology, including new ways to obtain dimensional and/ortopographical information.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] One embodiment of the present invention is a unique technique toobtain one or more body measurements of a person. Other embodimentsinclude unique systems, devices, methods, and apparatus to determinedimensional, topographical, and/or image information about an object.Still other embodiments include unique ways to utilize such information.

[0005] In a further embodiment of the present invention, electromagneticradiation interrogates an object to determine dimensional informationabout the object. This interrogation can include determining ameasurement of one or more features at least partially covered by asubstance that is penetrated by the electromagnetic radiation. In oneform, the electromagnetic radiation is of a nonionizing type that canpenetrate the clothing of a person to determine one or more bodymeasurements corresponding to a skin surface that is at least partiallycovered by the clothing. In another form, the invention may be appliedto determine dimensional information concerning a body surface that isnot covered by clothing or the like.

[0006] Still another embodiment includes irradiating a body at leastpartially covered with clothing and detecting electromagnetic radiationreturned from a surface of the body through the clothing in response tothis irradiation. A measurement of the body is determined from theelectromagnetic radiation that corresponds to this surface. The body canbe of a person with the surface corresponding to the person's skin. Inone preferred form of this embodiment, the electromagnetic radiationincludes at least one frequency in a frequency range of about 200Megahertz (MHz) to about 1 Terahertz (THz). In a more preferred form,the electromagnetic radiation is in a frequency range of about 1Gigahertz (GHz) to about 300 GHz. In a most preferred form, theelectromagnetic radiation is in a frequency range of about 5 GHz toabout 110 GHz.

[0007] Yet a further embodiment of the present invention is directed toirradiation of an object to obtain data corresponding to a number ofdifferent images of the object. A topographical representation isdetermined from the data. This representation can be used to generate adesired output, such as one or more images of the object. In onepreferred form, the electromagnetic radiation is in a frequency range ofabout 200 Megahertz (MHz) to about 1 Terahertz (THz). In a morepreferred form, the electromagnetic radiation is in a frequency range ofabout 1 GHz to about 300 GHz. In a most preferred form, theelectromagnetic radiation is in a range of about 5 GHz to about 110 GHz.

[0008] For another embodiment, a system includes an array to interrogatea person with electromagnetic radiation. One or more processors areincluded that respond to signals from the array to determine a bodymeasurement of the person. The body measurement corresponds to a skinsurface of the person that is at least partially covered by clothingduring interrogation with the array. In one preferred form, theelectromagnetic radiation includes one or more wavelengths in the rangefrom about 300 micrometers (em) to about 1.5 meters (m). In a morepreferred form, the electromagnetic radiation includes one or morewavelengths in the range from about 2 millimeters (mm) to about 1centimeter (cm).

[0009] Still another embodiment includes a device carrying one or moresignals that comprise logic to operate one or more processors. Thislogic is operable to process a number of data sets each corresponding toa different portion of a body interrogated with electromagneticradiation. The logic is further operable to provide a volumetric and/ortopographical representation of the body from the data sets anddetermine one or more body measurements from such representation(s).

[0010] In yet another embodiment, a system includes at least one arrayto interrogate an object with electromagnetic radiation at one or morefrequencies in a range of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz. Also includedare one or more processors responsive to this array that are operableto: establish a number of data sets each representative of athree-dimensional image of a different one of a number of portions ofthe object; map the data sets to a volumetric representation of theobject, the volumetric representation corresponding to a volume of theobject defined by each of the portions of the object; and process thevolumetric representation to provide an output. The system can furtherinclude a display device responsive to this output.

[0011] Another embodiment includes irradiating an object and detectingelectromagnetic radiation reflected by the object in response to thisirradiation. This electromagnetic radiation is in a frequency range ofabout 200 MHz to about 1 THz. Data determined from the electromagneticradiation detection is used to generate a volumetric or topographicalrepresentation of the object. This representation can define at leastone circumference of the object from which a circumferential measurementof the object can be determined.

[0012] Among other embodiments of the present invention is: providing asensing array and one or more processors coupled to the array;interrogating an object with electromagnetic radiation from the array;generating data representative of the object from this interrogationwith the one or more processors; and transmitting the data over acomputer network to a remote site. The electromagnetic radiation has afrequency in a range of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz.

[0013] Further embodiments include a system, method, device, and/orapparatus to determine dimensional and/or imaging information about anobject with electromagnetic radiation. In one preferred form, theelectromagnetic radiation is selected from a frequency range of about200 Megahertz (MHz) to about 1 Terahertz (THz). In a more preferredform, the electromagnetic radiation is in a frequency range of about 1GHz to about 300 GHz. In a most preferred form, the electromagneticradiation is in a range of about 5 GHz to about 110 GHz.

[0014] Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide aunique technique to obtain information through interrogation withelectromagnetic radiation.

[0015] Another object is to provide a unique system, method, device, orapparatus to determine dimensional, topographical, image, and/orvolumetric information about an object.

[0016] Other objects, embodiments, forms, features, advantages, aspectsand benefits of the present invention shall become apparent from thedetailed description and drawings included herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0017]FIG. 1 is a partial, diagrammatic view of an interrogation system.

[0018]FIG. 2 is a partial, top view of the FIG. 1 system along the viewline 2-2 shown in FIG. 1.

[0019]FIGS. 3 and 4 are flow charts illustrating one procedure foroperating the system of FIG. 1.

[0020]FIG. 5 is a schematic, top view of the system of FIG. 1illustrating a number of overlapping arc segments.

[0021]FIG. 6 is a computer-generated image provided in accordance withthe procedure of FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0022]FIG. 7 is a partial, diagrammatic view of another interrogationsystem.

[0023]FIG. 8 is a partial, diagrammatic view of yet anotherinterrogation system.

[0024]FIG. 9 is a partial, top view of the system of FIG. 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] While the present invention may be embodied in many differentforms, for the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principlesof the invention, reference will now be made to the embodimentsillustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used todescribe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitationof the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations andfurther modifications in the described embodiments, and any furtherapplications of the principles of the invention as described herein arecontemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to whichthe invention relates.

[0026] One nonlimiting form of the present invention includes aninterrogation technique to obtain topographic data about a surface of anobject that can be hidden by one or more layers, such as clothing, orexposed. The interrogation is performed with a scanner that emitselectromagnetic radiation in frequency range including the millimeterand/or microwave wavelength bands. The data can be used to form athree-dimensional topographical representation of the surface, determineobject dimensions, and/or render one or more images of the object. Whenapplied to a clothed individual, the scanner is capable ofdiscriminating between layers of clothing and identifying skinimpressions (indentations) left by tight fitting clothing (e.g., socks,belts, undergarment bands and straps). This data can be of interest forapparel designers. Likewise, the scanner can be used to measure one ormore features of an individual's body to fit clothing or selectbody-fitted equipment. Additionally or alternatively, the scanner caninterrogate inanimate and animate objects residing on a person's body(even if covered by clothing), in clothing itself, and in baggage. Thesefeatures can be desirable for certain security applications.

[0027]FIG. 1 illustrates system 20 of one embodiment of the presentinvention. In operation, system 20 determines dimensional and/ortopographical information about an animate or inanimate object byilluminating it with electromagnetic radiation in the 200 Megahertz(MHz) to 1 THz frequency range and detecting the reflected radiation.The corresponding wavelength range includes the millimeter and microwavebands. Certain natural and synthetic fibers are often semi-transparentto such frequencies/wavelengths, permitting the detection and/or imagingof surfaces positioned beneath such materials. When the subject ofinterrogation is a clothed individual, dimensional information aboutportions of a person's body covered by clothing or garments cantypically be obtained with system 20, as well as those portions that arenot covered by clothing or garments.

[0028] As illustrated in FIG. 1, body B is in the form of a person 22presented for interrogation by system 20. Person 22 is portrayed in atypical manner, being at least partially covered by garments or clothingdesignated by reference numerals 24 a and 24 b. Person 22 is positionedin scanning/illumination booth 30 of system 20. Booth 30 includesplatform 32 connected to motor 34. Platform 32 is arranged to supportperson 22 or such other object desired to be examined with system 20.Motor 34 is arranged to selectively rotate about rotational axis R whileperson 22 is positioned thereon. For the orientation shown, axis R isapproximately vertical, and person 22 is in a generally central positionrelative to axis R and platform 32.

[0029] Booth 30 further includes a multiple element-sensing array 36.Referring additionally to the partial top view of FIG. 2, therelationship of platform 32 to array 36 is further illustrated. Axis Ris generally perpendicular to the view plane of FIG. 2 and isrepresented by crosshairs. As motor 34 causes platform 32 to rotateabout axis R, array 36 circumscribes a generally circular pathway Pabout axis R. Circular pathway P corresponds to an imaginary cylinder Cwith radius D. Radius D is the distance from axis R to array 36. In onepreferred form, radius D is about 0.5 to about 2 meters. In a morepreferred form, radius D is about 0.5 meters to 1.5 meters—correspondingto about a 1 meter to 3 meter diameter. Arrow A shown in FIGS. 1 and 2represents the selective rotation of platform 32 about axis R.

[0030] Sensing array 36 includes a number of linearly arranged elements38 only a few of which are schematically illustrated and specificallydesigned by reference numerals to preserve clarity. Elements 38 eachoperate to transmit or receive electromagnetic radiation within aselected bandwidth. Sensing array 36 is coupled to control andprocessing subsystem 40. Subsystem 40 includes transceiver 42 withswitching tree 43 coupled to elements 38 of array 36. In one form, theposition of array 36 relative to platform 32 is determined with one ormore positional encoders (not shown) that are coupled to subsystem 40.In other forms, one or more different position tracking devices and/ortechniques can be used.

[0031] Under the control of transceiver 42, individual elements 38 canbe selectively activated with switching tree 43. Each element 38 isdedicated to transmission or reception. Elements 38 are arranged in twogenerally vertical columns arranged in a generally back-to-backrelationship with one another. Elements 38 comprising one of the columnsare dedicated to transmission and elements 38 comprising the other ofthe columns are dedicated to reception. The number of elements 38 ineach column is in a range of about 200 to about 600 elements and spans avertical distance of about 2 to 2.5 meters along axis R; however, inother embodiments, a different vertical span and/or number of elementscan be utilized. Transceiver 42 can control switching tree 43 toirradiate body B with only one element 38 of the transmitting column ata time and simultaneously receive with one or more elements 38 of thereceiving column. Transceiver 42 includes logic to direct successiveactivation of each element 38 of the transmitting column and thecorresponding one or more elements 38 of the receiving column to providea scan of a portion of body B along a vertical direction with array 36.The corresponding “down range” or“time-of-flight” information can beused to provide positional data about a corresponding portion of body Bunder interrogation (such as person 22). Further information about sucharrangements is provided in commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,859,609,which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, transceiver 42 and elements 38 ofarray 36 are of a form suitable to transmit and/or receiveelectromagnetic radiation selected from the range of about one Gigahertzto about one Terahertz (about 1 GHz to about 1 THz), which correspondsto a free space electromagnetic radiation wavelength range of about 0.3meter (m) to about 300 micrometers (μm). In another preferredembodiment, an impulse transceiver arrangement is utilized thatgenerates frequencies in a range of about 200 MHz to about 15 GHzdepending on the impulse width, which corresponds to a free spaceelectromagnetic radiation wavelength range of about 1.5 m to about 0.02m. In a more preferred embodiment, the frequency range is about 1 GHz toabout 300 GHz with a corresponding free space wavelength range of about0.3 meter to about 1 millimeter (mm). In a most preferred embodiment,the frequency range is about 5 GHz to about 110 GHz with a correspondingfree space wavelength range of about 0.06 m to about 2.7 mm.

[0033] The transmission pathway for a given element 38 of thetransmitting column can be selected to be about the same length as thetransmission pathway for the corresponding element(s) 38 of thereceiving column to simplify calibration. Nonetheless, in otherembodiments, the transmission/reception arrangement can differ. Forexample, in one alternative embodiment, one or more elements 38 are usedfor both transmission and reception. In another alternative embodiment,a mixture of both approaches is utilized. Typically, the signalsreceived from array 36 are downshifted in frequency and converted into aprocessible format through the application of standard techniques. Inone form, transceiver 42 is of a bi-static heterodyne FrequencyModulated Continuous Wave (FM/CW) type like that described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,859,609 (incorporated by reference herein). Commonly owned U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,557,283 and 5,455,590, each of which are incorporated byreference herein, provide several nonlimiting examples of othertransceiver arrangements. In still other embodiments, a mixture ofdifferent transceiver/sensing element configurations with overlapping ornonoverlapping frequency ranges can be utilized that may include one ormore of the impulse type, monostatic homodyne type, bi-static heterodynetype, and/or such other type as would occur to those skilled in the art.

[0034] Transceiver 42 provides the data corresponding to the arraysignals to one or more processors 44 of subsystem 40. Processor(s) 44can be comprised of one or more components of any type suitable toprocess the data received from transceiver 42, including digitalcircuitry, analog circuitry, or a combination of both. Processor(s) 44can be of a programmable type; a dedicated, hardwired state machine; ora combination of these. For a multiple processor form; distributed,pipelined, and/or parallel processing can be utilized as appropriate. Inone arrangement, an integrated circuit form of a programmable digitalsignal processor is utilized that is capable of at least 1 Gigaflopoperation.

[0035] Memory 46 is included in processor(s) 44. Memory 46 can be of asolid-state variety, electromagnetic variety, optical variety, or acombination of these forms. Furthermore, memory 46 and can be volatile,nonvolatile, or a mixture of these types. Memory 46 can be at leastpartially integrated with processor(s) 44. Removable processor-readableMemory Device (R.M.D.) 48 is also included with processor(s) 44. R.M.D.48 can be a floppy disc, cartridge, or tape form of removableelectromagnetic recording media; an optical CD or DVD disc; anelectrically reprogrammable solid-state type of nonvolatile memory,and/or such different variety as would occur to those skilled in theart. In still other embodiments, R.M.D. 48 is absent.

[0036] Subsystem 40 is coupled to motor 34 to selectively control therotation of platform 32 with processor(s) 44 and/or transceiver 42.Subsystem 40 includes one or more operator input devices 50 and one ormore display devices 52. Operator input device(s) 50 can include akeyboard, mouse or other pointing device, a voice recognition inputsubsystem, and/or a different system as would occur to those skilled inthe art. Operator display device(s) 52 can be of a Cathode Ray Tube(CRT) type, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) type, plasma type, OrganicLight Emitting Diode (OLED) type, or such different type as would occurto those skilled in the art. In one form, at least a standard keyboardand mouse are included in input devices(s) 50, and at least onehigh-resolution color graphic display is included in display devices 52.

[0037] System 20 further includes communication subsystem 60 coupled tosubsystem 40 by communication link 62. Subsystem 60 includes networkserver 63 coupled to computer network 70. Computer network 70 includesthe internet. Communication link 62 can be provided in the form of oneor more dedicated communication channels for subsystem 40, a Local AreaNetwork (LAN), and/or a Wide Area Network (WAN), such as the internet.In other words, server 63 can be remotely located relative to subsystem40 with computer network 70 providing link 62. Indeed, in oneembodiment, server 63 is coupled to a number of remotely locatedsubsystems 40 with corresponding booths 30. In still other embodiments,more than one server 63 can be coupled to a common booth 30 andsubsystem 40 arrangement.

[0038] Server 63 is operable to communicate via the world wide web overnetwork 70. Server 63 includes a data store 64 to collect data providedfrom subsystem 40 and is arranged to provide a web site 66 comprisingone or more web pages of information. Computer network 70communicatively couples a number of sites 80 together. Each site 80includes a computer 82 arranged to communicatively interface withcomputer network 70 through web browser 84. Each computer 82 includesone or more operator input device(s) 50 and one or more operator outputdevice(s) 52 as previously described for subsystem 40, that are notshown to preserve clarity. Device(s) 50 and 52 at each site 80selectively provide an operator input and output (I/O) capability viaweb browser 84. Computer 82 can be in the form of a personal computer,computer workstation, another computer server, Personal DigitalAssistant (PDA), and/or a different configuration as would occur tothose skilled in the art. While only two user sites 80 are illustratedto preserve clarity, it should be understood that more or fewer can becoupled to computer network 70.

[0039] Collectively, server 63, computer network 70, and sites 80provide an arrangement to remotely access and/or control subsystem 40 orbooth 30. The interconnection of these components can be hardwired,wireless, or a combination of both. In other embodiments, aninterconnection technique other than the internet could be alternativelyor additionally utilized with the connection interfaces of server 63and/or sites 80 adapted accordingly. For example, sites 80 and server 63could be coupled by a LAN, dedicated cabling, and the like. In onealternative embodiment, server 63 is an integral part of subsystem 40.For still other embodiments, server 63, network 70 and sites 80 areabsent. Indeed, removable memory device 48 can be used to alternativelyor additionally transfer data between subsystem 40 and othercomputing/processing devices.

[0040] Referring additionally to FIG. 3, one mode of operating system 20is illustrated as procedure 120. Procedure 120 is performed to provide athree-dimensional topographical representation of Body B with system 20.Various body measurements can be determined from this representationwith system 20. Procedure 120 begins with initialization operation 122that sets interrogation index “I” to one (I=1). From operation 122,procedure 120 enters interrogation loop 124 beginning with interrogationsubroutine 130. Interrogation subroutine 130 interrogates a portion ofbody B within a field of view of array 36 as body B rotates on platform32. Index I is an integer index to the number of different interrogationsubroutines 130 performed as part of procedure 120.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 4, interrogation subroutine 130 is furtherillustrated. Subroutine 130 begins with initialization operation 132 inwhich transmission index N is set to one (N=1). From operation 132,element sequencing loop 134 is entered, beginning withtransmission/reception operation 136. Index N is an integer index to thenumber of transmission/reception operations 136 performed duringsubroutine 130.

[0042] In operation 136, a portion of the body in the field of view of atransmitting element number “N” of array 36 is irradiated withelectromagnetic radiation and one or more corresponding receptionelements collect the reflected electromagnetic radiation in response tothe transmission. The transmitting and reception elements are selectedby logic of transceiver 42 with switching tree 43 as previouslydescribed. From operation 136, subroutine 130 proceeds to conditional138, which tests whether transmitting element number “N” is the lastelement needed to transmit (N=LAST?); where LAST is the total number ofthe transmitting elements to be activated by transceiver 42. In oneform, for each execution of subroutine 130, transmitting element “N”sweeps through a selected frequency range twice, and the correspondingbackscatter information for each of the two sweeps is received with adifferent reception element. The transmitting elements can be staggeredrelative to the reception elements such that transmitting element Naligns with a point between the two reception elements along a commonaxis of the array. U.S. Pat. No. 5,557,283 (incorporated by reference)describes an example of this arrangement of transmitting and receptionelements. In other forms, a different technique can be utilizedinvolving more or fewer sweeps, different types of sweeps, and/ordifferent transmitting/reception orientations and numbers.

[0043] If the test of conditional 138 is negative (N<LAST), thenincrement operation 142 is performed, incrementing N by one (N=N+1).Loop 134 returns from operation 142 to transmission/reception operation136 for execution with the transmitting/receiving subset of elements 38corresponding to the new, incremented value of N from operation 142. Inthis manner, elements 38 are activated in a vertical path along array 36with transceiver 42 to provide data along a contiguous region of body B.

[0044] The resolution of interrogation information obtained withtransceiver 42 can be enhanced by linearly sweeping through a selectedultrawide frequency range during each operation 136. In one preferredform, transceiver 42 sweeps through a range of at least 10 GHz for eachexecution of operation 136. This sweep can occur, for example, over arange of about 10 GHz to about 20 GHz. In a more preferred form,transceiver 42 and elements 38 are arranged for a sweep range of 16 GHz.This sweep can occur, for example, over a range of about 24 GHz to about40 GHz. In one most preferred form, the ultrawide sweep range isselected such that the range resolution is generally the same as thelateral resolution. For these forms, elements 38 are selected to be of atype with a frequency response suitable for the selected sweep range,including, but not limited to the taper slot or end-fire antenna type.In another form, the transmitter can sweep through a given frequencyrange (such as 10 GHz to 20 GHz) in a pseudo-random order—sometimesknown as frequency hopping.

[0045] Loop 134 is repeated LAST number of times, sequencing through thedesired transmitting/receiving elements 38 of array 36 under the controlof transceiver 42. When the test of conditional 138 is true, theaffirmative branch proceeds to data operation 144. Data resulting fromthe execution of operation 136 is provided by transceiver 42 toprocessor(s) 44. In data operation 144, an interrogation data set isestablished for the information gathered through the repeated executionof operation 136 from N=1 through N=LAST. This data set corresponds tothe current value of integer index I and the body portion illuminatedduring these executions. Initially, the interrogation data set can beaccumulated and organized by transceiver 42, processor(s) 44 or both;and then stored in memory 46 for further processing by processor(s) 44as described in connection with the remainder of procedure 120. Fromoperation 144, subroutine 130 returns to the next stage of procedure120.

[0046] Referring back to FIG. 3, procedure 120 continues withconditional 152 that tests whether the final value of index I has beenreached (I=TOTAL?); where TOTAL is the total number of desiredexecutions of loop 124 (and subroutine 130) for process 120. If the testof conditional 152 is negative (I<TOTAL), process 120 proceeds toincrement operation 154 to increment index I by one (I=I+1). Loop 124then returns to subroutine 130 for the next execution until I isincremented to be equal to TOTAL.

[0047] With the execution of loop 124 TOTAL number of times, TOTALnumber of interrogation data sets are stored in memory 46. When theperformance of subroutine 130 is relatively fast compared to therotational speed of platform 32, each of the interrogation data setscorresponds to a general vertical portion of body B. In one suchexample, the following parameters apply:

[0048] (a) platform rotational speed of 20 seconds per revolution;

[0049] (b) 600 executions of loop 134 for each execution of subroutine130; and

[0050] (c) execution time of subroutine 130 of no more than 12milliseconds.

[0051] For the indicated rotational speed in (a), the platform rotatesthrough less than one quarter (¼) of a degree in the time it takes toexecute subroutine 130. Accordingly, each execution of subroutine 130and the corresponding interrogation data set generally approximates avertical body portion. In other examples for which the rotational speedis relatively fast compared to subroutine 130 execution, a body portioncorresponding to a helical or spiral path along the body results thatcan also be processed in accordance with the teachings of the presentinvention by taking into account his more complex spatial relationship.

[0052] When the test of conditional 152 is true, procedure 120 continueswith cylindrical segmentation operation 160. In operation 160, theinterrogation data sets are processed with processor(s) 44 to generate anumber of cylindrical image data sets that each correspond to an arcsegment of cylinder C. Referring to FIG. 2, arc segment S1 subtends aviewing angle V of about 90 degrees with respect to body B. Arc segmentS1 defines a cylindrical aperture CA that extends along axis R. Theimage data set corresponding to arc segment S1 represents thethree-dimensional surface of body B that is reflective with respect tothe selected electromagnetic radiation, as if viewed through cylindricalaperture CA. In one convenient form, the image data set is defined interms of cylindrical coordinates, although any three-dimensionalcoordinate system can be used. Each image data set is determined fromthe interrogation data gathered for the corresponding arc segment byprocessor(s) 44. Reference is made to commonly owned U.S. Pat. No.5,859,609 (incorporated herein by reference) for further descriptionabout the determination of cylindrical image data.

[0053] During operation 160, cylindrical image data sets are determinedfor a number of arc segments about axis R that collectively circumscribebody B. In FIG. 5, eight overlapping arc segments S1, S2, S3, S4, S5,S6, S7, and S8 (collectively segments S) are illustrated with respectthe generally circular pathway P and corresponding cylinder C. SegmentsS1, S3, S5, and S7 are schematically represented by double-headed arrowsslightly to the outside of path P and segments S2, S4, S6 and S8 areschematically represented by double-headed arrows slightly inside path Pto preserve clarity. In FIG. 5, segments S each correspond to a viewingangle of about 90 degrees, and each one overlaps two others by about 45degrees. It should be understood that each different segment Scorresponds to a representation of a different portion of body B. Inother embodiments, the viewing angle can differ and/or may be nonuniformfrom one arc segment S to the next. Alternatively or additionally,overlap may be intermittent or absent.

[0054] Procedure 120 continues with mapping operation 162. In operation162, the image data obtained for the circumscribing arc segments S aremapped by processor(s) 44 to a common surface for body B, which is turndefines a common volume of body B. Operation 162 can include reconcilinga data point for one of the arc segments S for a given location thatdiffers by a threshold amount from the data point of the same locationfor another of the arc segments S. In one embodiment, an averagingtechnique is used and intermediate data points are interpolated. Inanother embodiment, a weighting function is utilized that progressivelyreduces the contribution of a data point as the distance of that datapoint from the midpoint of the corresponding arc segment S increases.The cylindrical data sets are preferably combined incoherently (aftercomputing the magnitude) to reduce undesirable phase interference in theimages. Operation 162 provides a volumetric representation of body Bbounded by its surface(s) about axis R that are reflective with respectto the electromagnetic radiation used for the interrogations ofsubroutine 130. This representation includes topographic informationabout such surface(s).

[0055] From operation 162, one or more measurements of body B aredetermined with processor(s) 44 in operation 164. For thisdetermination, a reference unit corresponding to the desired measurementcan be provided on platform 32, a background panel, or by a differentmeans as would occur to those skilled in the art. This reference is usedto quantify the desired measurement in terms of desired units.

[0056] In one application, body measurements correspond to those desiredto size clothing for person 22. For this application, the interrogatingelectromagnetic radiation is selected to be generally transparent toand/or penetrate clothing 24 a, 24 b to provide lineal body measurementsthat correspond to the skin surface of person 22—including skin surfacesbeneath clothing 24 a and 24 b. The selection of electromagneticradiation frequency and/or frequency sweep range is made to provide thedesired resolution of the body measurements.

[0057] Commonly, body measurements to fit clothing includecircumferences of the neck, chest, waist, and/or hip region. Otherlineal or distance measurements can include inseam, sleeve, and/or torsolengths. Still further measurements include head, breast, thighs, palmand/or foot girth for the purposes of fitting hats, brassieres, pants,gloves and/or footwear, respectively. Besides clothing, measurements ofan individual can be used in other applications, such as ergonomicproduct design, prosthetics, and the representation/prediction of achange in appearance that might occur with weight loss or gain, cosmeticsurgery, and the like.

[0058] In still other applications, measurements may be made ofinanimate objects for many other purposes, including, but not limitedto: analysis of the contents of an object having an outer layer that ispenetrated by the selected electromagnetic radiation, determining one ormore dimensions of an object to make or select object packaging,assessing shipping costs based on object dimensions, and the like. Themeasurement/quantification of individuals and/or inanimate objects usingthe teachings of the present invention can be of a surface area and/orvolume as an alternative or addition to lineal measurements.

[0059] Procedure 120 proceeds from operation 164 to operation 166. Inoperation 166, one or more images are determined with processor(s) 44from the volumetric/topographical representation of body B determined inoperation 162. Operation 166 renders one or more two-dimensional imagesfrom the data representing the volume of body B by performing atwo-dimensional parallel ray projection from a desired viewing angle.Along each parallel ray, the intensity is attenuated in proportion tothe data it encounters in the representation. After attenuation, themaximum voxel intensity is selected to represent an image pixelintensity for the corresponding ray. The attenuation factor is adjustedso that the back surface of the representation does not contribute tothe rendering. The two-dimensional rendering can be displayed usingdevice(s) 52 as appropriate.

[0060] In one embodiment, a number of two-dimensional images fromdifferent viewing angles are rendered from the volumetric/topographicalrepresentation. These images can be presented in a selected sequence toprovide an animation of body B. In one form, a sequence of about 32 toabout 64 generally evenly spaced views about axis R are used to generatea rotating animation of body B about axis R.

[0061] From operation 166, procedure 120 continues with operation 168.In operation 168, one or more measurement indicators are also displayedthat overlay one or more body images. In one embodiment, the displayedimage of a person can be adjusted to hide/conceal body features to whicha privacy objection might be made. Alternatively, the rendering caninclude a schematic body image similar to a mannequin in appearance.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, the volumetric/topographicalrepresentation of body B can be displayed as a number of sectionalimages. FIG. 6 presents computer-generated images determined from anexperiment that was performed using an arrangement to simulate system20. Image 320 corresponds to a front viewing angle of a clothed person;where the person's clothing is generally transparent to theinterrogating electromagnetic radiation. For image 320, indicator lines330 a, 330 b, 330 c, 330 d, and 330 e correspond to various sectionalviews 340 that are more specifically designated head sectional view 340a, chest sectional view 340 b, stomach sectional view 340 c, thighsectional view 340 d, and knee sectional view 340 e; respectively. Image320 and sectional views 340 were determined from avolumetric/topographical representation obtained in accordance withprocedure 120 using an ultrawide sweep range of 24 GHz to 40 GHz foreach activation of an array element. Eight arc segments S were processedfor this experiment in an arrangement like that represented in FIG. 5.It should be appreciated that this topographic representation defines anumber of different circumferences of the depicted body, such as thoserepresented by sectional views 340.

[0063] In still other embodiments, display of body images may be absent.Alternatively or additionally, the information gathered with subsystem40 is sent via computer network 64 to one or more remote sites 80. Sites80 can perform some or all of the data processing represented byoperations 160, 162, 164, 166, and/or 168 in lieu of processor(s) 44. Inone process, a clothed individual is nonintrusively scanned by booth 30and the measurement(s), image(s), animation, and/or topographicalinformation of the individual's body is sent via server 63 and network64 to a designated computer 82. From this computer 82, the measurementinformation can be sent via network 64 to one or more e-commerceclothing suppliers or other clothing business to electronically order ormanufacture clothing of the desired size and style. Alternatively oradditionally, the topographical information can be used to automaticallygenerate by computer or otherwise custom two-dimensional (2-D) patternsfor apparel manufacture.

[0064] For procedure 120, transceiver 42 and processor(s) 44 includelogic to perform the various operations described. This logic can be inthe form of software programming instructions, firmware, and/or of ahardwired form, just to name a few. Furthermore such logic can be in theform of one or more signals carried by, on, or with memory 46, R.M.D.48, and/or one or more parts of computer network 70. In one example,logic signals to perform one or more operations is transmitted to orfrom processor(s) 44 via network 70. Alternatively or additionally,programming for processor(s) 44 is transported or disseminated throughR.M.D. 48 and/or one or more other storage devices.

[0065]FIG. 7 illustrates interrogation system 420 of another embodimentof the present invention. System 420 illuminates body B with selectedelectromagnetic radiation in the manner described in connection withsystem 20. For system 420, body B is in the form of person 422 wearingclothing articles 424 a and 424 b. As in previously describedembodiments, system 420 can be used to interrogate inanimate objects aswell.

[0066] System 420 includes scanning booth 430 coupled to control andprocessing subsystem 440. Scanning booth 430 includes stationaryplatform 432 arranged to support body B and frame 433 to support motor434 coupled to array 436. In contrast to the platform rotation of booth30, scanning booth 430 selectively rotates array 436 about rotationalaxis R and platform 432 during interrogation. For this arrangement,array 436 follows a generally circular pathway to provide acorresponding imaginary cylinder about platform 432. In one formsuitable for scanning a person in the standing position, the radius ofthis cylinder is about 1 meter. Array 436 is otherwise configured thesame as array 36.

[0067] In system 420, subsystem 440 is configured the same as subsystem40 of system 420 and is likewise arranged to perform procedure 120.However, during the performance of procedure 120, the operation ofsubsystem 440 accounts for the movement of array 436 relative toplatform 432 instead of the movement of platform 32 relative to array36. System 420 can include one or more encoders (not shown) operativelycoupled to subsystem 440 and/or other devices/techniques to track theposition of array 436 relative to platform 432. System 420 can furtherinclude a communication subsystem (not shown) the same as subsystem 60to remotely communicate with subsystem 440. Like previously describedembodiments, system 420 is used to determine measurement, topographical,image, animation, and/or three-dimensional volume information about bodyB.

[0068]FIG. 8 illustrates electromagnetic radiation interrogation system520 of yet another embodiment of the present invention. System 520illuminates body B with selected electromagnetic radiation of the typepreviously described. For system 520, body B is in the form of person522 wearing garments/clothing designated by reference numerals 524 a and524 b. As in previously described embodiments, system 520 can be used tointerrogate animate or inanimate objects.

[0069] System 520 includes scanning booth 530 coupled to control andprocessing subsystem 540. Scanning booth 530 includes frame 533 arrangedto receive body B and support array 536. In contrast to the lineararrays 36 and 436 of previously described systems 20 and 420, array 532is arranged as a ring or hoop generally centered with respect tocenterline vertical axis V. A number of electromagnetic radiationtransmitting/receiving elements are arranged in a generally circularpathway along the ring. These elements operate to interrogate body Bwith electromagnetic radiation including one or more wavelengths in themillimeter, microwave, and/or adjacent wavelength bands. Array 536 isarranged for translational movement along axis V to scan body B asrepresented by arrow T. One or more motors or other prime mover(s) (notshown) are utilized to selectively move array 536 along axis V.

[0070] Referring further to the partial top view of FIG. 9, array 536 issized with opening 537 to receive body B therethrough as array 536 movesup and down along axis V. In FIG. 9, axis V is generally perpendicularto the view plane and is represented by crosshairs. With the verticalmotion of array 536, an imaginary cylinder is defined about body B inaccordance with the circular path defined by the array ring; however,neither body B nor array 536 is rotated relative to the other, insteadtranslational movement of array 536 is used to scan body B vertically.

[0071] Subsystem 540 is configured the same as subsystems 40 and 440 andis operable to perform procedure 120, except that processing ofsubsystem 540 is adapted to account for the vertical movement of array436 instead of rotational movement. System 520 can further include acommunication subsystem (not shown) the same as subsystem 60 to remotelycommunicate with subsystem 440. Like previously described embodiments,system 520 is used to determine measurement, image, animation,topographical, and/or three-dimensional volume information about body B.

[0072] Compared to array 36, a larger number of transmitting/receivingelements is typically needed for array 536 to have a comparableresolution to previously described embodiments. In one comparison,between 500 and 2000 transmitting/receiving elements would be desiredfor array 536 versus 200 to 600 for array 36 for comparable resolution,depending on the frequency band selected. However, under appropriateconditions, scanning booth 530 can perform a scan substantially fasterthan booth 30. In one nonlimiting example, the scan time for booth 30 isin a range of about 10 to 20 seconds versus about 2 to 5 seconds forscanning booth 530.

[0073] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the bodyundergoing interrogation and the array both move. In one such example,array elements are arranged in an arc segment that can move verticallywhile the body rotates. In another example, both the array and bodyrotate. The processing of interrogation data can be adjusted for thesedifferent motion patterns using techniques known to those skilled in theart.

[0074] In another embodiment, the interrogation and correspondingtopographic representation do not correspond to the full circumferenceof the body undergoing interrogation. Instead, the segment of interestcan be less than 360 degrees. For such embodiments, the topographicrepresentation can still be determined by combining data correspondingto two or more different cylindrical arc segment apertures. In aclothing sizing application, the inseam, sleeve, and/or torso lengthmeasurements can be made using less than a full 360 degree volumetricrepresentation. Alternative or additionally, less than the full height,width, and/or length of the body may be scanned in alternativeembodiments. For such alternatives, the array size and/or scanningpattern can be correspondingly adjusted. In other applications, viewsand/or dimensions of interest can also be based on data that accountsfor less than all the surfaces of the object under investigation.

[0075] In still other embodiments, a topographic representation providedin accordance with the present invention can be utilized for differentpurposes in addition or as an alternative to mensuration. In oneexample, the topographic representation can be used to detect concealeditems. For one form of this application, the scanning booth platform canbe comprised of a material, such as an organic thermoplastic orthermoset polymer, that permits the interrogation in or beneath thesoles of shoes where weapons can sometimes be hidden. In anotherexample, a three-dimensional likeness is generated from the topographicrepresentation to perform further analysis relating to the correspondingperson or object.

[0076] In one further embodiment, a topographical representation isobtained in accordance with procedure 120 and/or system 20, 420, or 520to identify an individual. One form of this embodiment includes atechnique to control access to a restricted area, comprising: scanningan individual attempting to gain access to the restricted area;determining a topographical representation of the individual from thescan; comparing one or more aspects of this representation, such as oneor more relative body dimensions, to data stored for those permittedaccess to the restricted area; and allowing access to the restrictedarea by the individual if there is a match within a desired degree oferror. The determination of a match can be used to activate a portal,gate, or other access control device. In one variation of thisembodiment, one or more other biometrics (such as a fingerprint, palmprint, retina image, vocal pattern, etc.) of the individual are comparedin addition to the topographical representation related data as part ofthe determination of whether to allow access. The body dimension(s) usedfor identification can be changed for each access to reduce thelikelihood that the access control measures will be circumvented. Suchembodiments can be provided as a method, apparatus, system, and/ordevice.

[0077] In still a further embodiment, topographical representationinformation can be used for profiling. One nonlimiting example includes:scanning an individual to obtain topographical information; comparingthis information to a database of topographical information for knownterrorists or other undesirable parties; and taking further action toscreen access of the individual to a sensitive area if the comparisonindicates an unacceptable degree of similarity. This action can be takenirrespective of whether a concealed object, such as a weapon, isindicated by the scan. Various forms of this embodiment include methods,systems, apparatus and/or devices.

[0078] Another embodiment directed to an identification techniqueincludes: scanning passengers of a commercial transportation vehicle,such as a commercial aircraft, for identifying topographicalinformation; and in the event the vehicle is later involved in anaccident resulting in injury or death, identifying one or more passengerbodies or body parts using the information. If a seating arrangement isknown for the vehicle, the information for each passenger can becorrelated to this arrangement to assist with identification. Thescanning can be performed with the nonintrusive interrogation methods ofthe present invention as part of the vehicle boarding process. Suchembodiments can be provided in the form of a method, apparatus, system,and/or device.

[0079] For yet a further embodiment, scanned topographical informationregarding an individual is stored in a portable storage device, such asa “smart card.” This device can be used for identification purposesand/or to customize equipment to the individual. One nonlimiting exampledirected to customization includes establishing an interface between thedevice and a vehicle and automatically adjusting a vehicle seat or othervehicle equipment to the individual's body dimensions and/or shape basedon the information. This embodiment can be in the form of a method,apparatus, system, and/or device.

[0080] Still other embodiments of the present invention use procedure120 and/or one or more of systems 20, 420, or 520 to provide at leastone topographical representation for use in a virtual space orcomputer-defined domain. One such embodiment includes: scanning anindividual to generate a corresponding topographical representation;generating a three-dimensional visualization of the individual with acomputer based on the representation; and incorporating thevisualization into a sequence of computer-generated images to provide alikeness of the individual. This likeness can be animated in a mannerconsistent with the images. The sequence of images can be provided inthe context of a game, a virtual reality process, and/or a movie, toname just a few examples. Such embodiments can be provided in the formof method, apparatus, system, and/or device.

[0081] Another embodiment directed to a computer domain/virtual spaceapplication, includes: interrogating a number of objects to obtain acorresponding number of topographical representations and determiningone or more relationships between the objects by analysis of therepresentations with a computer. One form of this embodiment includes:scanning several pieces of wreckage resulting from a vehicle accident,such as an aircraft accident, to provide a corresponding number oftopographical representations; and arranging the representationsrelative to one another with a computer to analyze the accident. Thisform can include orienting the pieces in different spatial relationshipsrelative to one another in a computer domain to at least partiallyreconstruct the vehicle; removing apparent deformities of one or more ofthe pieces in a computer domain to assist with reconstruction;visualizing one or more of the pieces with a computer; generating arecord in a computer of the time and place of discovery of each of thepieces; and/or detecting metal fragments or other radar reflectivematerial at least partially embedded in a radar transparent/translucentmaterial. This embedded material can be indicative of an explosion. Suchembodiments can be provided as a method, apparatus, system, and/ordevice. Yet other embodiments are directed to other applications aswould occur to those skilled in the art.

[0082] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a topographicrepresentation of an object is determined from electromagnetic radiationinterrogation that combines two or more cylindrical segment data sets.This unique technique can provide topographical data defining one ormore circumferences of an object about an axis with high resolution. Incontrast, conventional cylindrical imaging schemes do not combinecylindrical segment data—instead being rather limited to the utilizationof a much larger number of uncombined images to provide an animatedpresentation.

[0083] All publications and patent applications cited in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individualpublication or patent application were specifically and individuallyindicated to be incorporated by reference. Further, any theory,mechanism of operation, proof, or finding stated herein is meant tofurther enhance understanding of the present invention, and is notintended to limit the present invention in any way to such theory,mechanism of operation, proof, or finding. While the invention has beenillustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoingdescription, the same is to be considered as illustrative and notrestrictive in character, it being understood that only selectedembodiments have been shown and described and that all equivalents,changes, and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventionsas defined herein or by the following claims are desired to beprotected.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: irradiating a body at leastpartially covered with clothing; detecting electromagnetic radiationreflected from a surface of the body through the clothing in response tosaid irradiating; and determining a measurement of the bodycorresponding to the surface from the electromagnetic radiation.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic radiation is selectedfrom a frequency range of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said irradiating and said detecting are performed foreach of a number of different portions of the body to provide a numberof data sets each corresponding to a different view of the body, andsaid determining includes providing a volumetric representation of thedifferent portions of the body from the data sets.
 4. The method ofclaim 3, further comprising displaying an image of the body determinedfrom the volumetric representation.
 5. The method of claim 3, whereinthe measurement is a circumference of the body determined from thevolumetric representation.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the body isof a person and the surface corresponds to skin of the person, andfurther comprising rendering a sectional image of the person at leastpartially bounded by the skin.
 7. A method, comprising: interrogating aperson with electromagnetic radiation having at least one frequency in arange of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz; and determining a measurementalong a skin surface of the person from said interrogating.
 8. Themethod of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the skin surface isbeneath clothing during said interrogating.
 9. The method of claim 7,further comprising performing said interrogating with a sensing arrayand rotating at least one of the array and the person relative to anaxis to irradiate different portions of the person during saidinterrogating.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the distancemeasurement corresponds to a circumference of the person about the axis.11. The method of claim 7, wherein said interrogating includes changingfrequency of the electromagnetic radiation over a range of at leastabout 10 GHz.
 12. A method, comprising: interrogating an object withelectromagnetic radiation including one or more frequencies in a rangeof about 200 MHz to about 1 THz for each of a number of different viewsof the object; determining a number of data sets each representative ofa cylindrical image of the object for a respective one of the differentviews; and combining the data sets to generate a topographicalrepresentation of the object corresponding to the different views. 13.The method of claim 12, further comprising rendering a two-dimensionalimage of the object from the topographical representation.
 14. Themethod of claim 12, wherein the topographical representation defines atleast one circumference of the object.
 15. The method of claim 12,wherein said object is a clothed person and the image includes a skinsurface of the person positioned beneath clothing during saidirradiating and said detecting.
 16. The method of claim 12, furthercomprising determining one or more measurements of the object from thetopographical representation.
 17. The method of claim 12, furthercomprising rendering a number of two-dimensional images from thetopographical representation and displaying the images to provide arotating animation of the object.
 18. The method of claim 12, furthercomprising determining sectional image data from the topographicalrepresentation.
 19. A system, comprising: an array to interrogate aperson with electromagnetic radiation in a frequency range of about 200MHz to about 1 THz; and one or more processors responsive to said arrayto determine a body measurement of the person, the body measurementcorresponding to a skin surface of the person at least partially coveredby clothing during interrogation with said array.
 20. The system ofclaim 19, further comprising a display device responsive to said one ormore processors to provide at least one image corresponding to theperson.
 21. The system of claim 19, further comprising a platformproximate to said array to support the person and a motor to rotate atleast one of said array and said platform about an axis.
 22. The systemof claim 19, further comprising a computer network coupled to said oneor more processors and a remote computer, said one or more processorsbeing operable to transmit data corresponding to the body measurement tosaid remote computer over said computer network.
 23. The system of claim19, wherein said one or more processors are further operable todetermine a volumetric representation of the person from a number ofdata sets, said data sets each corresponding to a different view of theperson.
 24. A device carrying one or more signals, the one or moresignals comprising: logic to operate one or more processors, said logicbeing operable to process data corresponding to a number of differentportions of a body interrogated with electromagnetic radiation in afrequency range of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz, said logic beingfurther operable to provide a topographical representation of the bodyfrom the data and determine one or more body measurements from thetopographical representation.
 25. The device of claim 24, wherein thedevice is in the form of a removable, processor-readable memory and saidlogic is in the form of a number of instructions for the one or moreprocessors stored in said memory.
 26. The device of claim 24, whereinthe device includes one or more parts of a computer network and saidlogic is encoded in the one or more signals for transmission over saidcomputer network.
 27. The device of claim 24, wherein said data includesa number of different sets each corresponding to a different arc segmentof a cylinder.
 28. The device of claim 24, wherein at least one of theone or more body measurements corresponds to a body circumferencedetermined from the topographical representation with said logic. 29.The device of claim 24, wherein said logic is further operable to definesectional image data from the topographical representation to provide asectional image of the body.
 30. A method, comprising: irradiating anobject; detecting electromagnetic radiation reflected by the object inresponse to said irradiating, the electromagnetic radiation being in afrequency range of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz; and determining acircumferential measurement of the object from the electromagneticradiation.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein said irradiating isperformed with a sensing array and further comprising rotating at leastone of the object and the array.
 32. The method of claim 30, whereinsaid determining includes establishing a volumetric representation ofthe object from data corresponding to a number of different images ofthe object.
 33. The method of claim 30, wherein the object is a clothedperson and the circumferential measurement is along a skin surface ofthe person at least partially covered by clothing during saidirradiating.
 34. The method of claim 30, further comprising providing avisualization of the object with an indicator corresponding to thecircumferential measurement.
 35. A system, comprising: at least onearray to interrogate an object with electromagnetic radiation at one ormore frequencies in a range of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz; one or moreprocessors responsive to said array, said one or more processors beingoperable to: establish a number of data sets each representative of athree-dimensional image of a different one of a number of portions ofthe object; map the data sets to a topographical representation of theobject, the topographical representation corresponding to a surface ofthe object defined by each of the portions of the object; and processthe topographical representation to provide an output; and a deviceresponsive to said output.
 36. The system of claim 35, wherein saidoutput represents to one or more measurements of the object.
 37. Thesystem of claim 35, wherein the object is a clothed person and theoutput includes an image of a skin surface of the person positionedbeneath clothing during said interrogating.
 38. The system of claim 35,wherein the data sets each correspond to a different arc segment of acylinder about the object.
 39. The system of claim 35, wherein theoutput includes a number of two-dimensional images rendered from thevolumetric representation by said one or more processors.
 40. A method,comprising: providing a sensing array and one or more processors coupledto the array; interrogating an object with electromagnetic radiationfrom the array, a frequency of the electromagnetic radiation being in arange of about 200 MHz to about 1 THz; generating data representative ofthe object from said interrogating with the one or more processors, thedata corresponding to one or more lineal measurements of the object; andtransmitting the data over a computer network to a remote site.
 41. Themethod of claim 40, wherein the object is a person at least partiallycovered by clothing and the data includes one or more lineal bodymeasurements about the person.
 42. The method of claim 40, wherein thedata corresponds to a topographical representation of at least a portionof the object.
 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the computer networkincludes the internet and said transmitting includes sending the datawith a network server coupled to the one or more processors and thecomputer network.
 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the frequency isin a range of about 5 GHz to about 110 GHz, and further comprisingchanging the frequency by at least 10 GHz during said interrogating. 45.The method of claim 40, further comprising sending informationrepresentative of at least one of the one or more measurements from acomputer at the remote site to a different site coupled to the computernetwork.
 46. The method of claim 45, wherein the object is a clothedperson, the one or more measurements correspond to body measurements tosize clothing, and the different site corresponds to a clothingbusiness.
 47. The method of claim 40, wherein the data corresponds to acircumference of at least a portion of the object.
 48. The method ofclaim 40, further comprising manufacturing a two-dimensional clothingpattern based on the data.